The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) was enacted to keep debt collectors from harassing consumers and from using deceptive practices when collecting a debt. The Act is very detailed, and if a debt collector violates any part of the FDCPA, the consumer has legal rights to retaliate.
If you have been harassed by a collection agency, or they have broken the FDCPA while trying to collect a debt, you should be aware of your rights and take action against them for these violations. You can file a complaint against a collection agency through a government agency, or you can sue the collection agency for their actions.
Filing a Complaint Against a Collection Agency
When you are ready to file a complaint against a collection agency, you have options. You will file a complaint against the debt collector through a government agency. Knowing what a debt collector can and cannot do is important, so make sure the collection agency violated the FDCPA and provide documentation to support that allegation.
You should document every call, writing down the date and time of the call, the originating number, the name of the caller, and the general details of the discussion. Keep all voicemails and indicate that you have them. Records as many calls as possible. Maintain all written correspondence. You have four options for filing a complaint against a collection agency.
Where Do I File A Complaint Against A Collection Agency?
You have four options for filing a complaint against a collection agency and ending the harassment. Here are your options.
- If you have researched it, and you find the FDCPA has been violated, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which is an independent government agency whose job is to enforce all consumer finance industry laws and regulations.
- You can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, which enforces debt collection laws. This agency also plays a role in making the policies that govern consumer finance.
- Contact the attorney general in your state. Your state most likely has its own laws about debt collection, and if you find out state laws are being violated you can file a complaint on the state level as well.
- Another place where you might want to consider filing a complaint is the Better Business Bureau. It is not associated with the government, but the non-profit organization works to promote trustworthy and ethical business practices.
Consult With an FDCPA Attorney About Filing a Complaint Against a Collection Agency
A FDCPA attorney can help you file a complaint against a collection agency and help you sue a collection agency for violating the FDCPA. You have nothing to lose because the initial consultation is free. Many FDCPA lawyers will work on a contingency basis, so they are not paid until you are compensated for your damages. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page today, so you can get your complaint against a collection agency filed.
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